Journalism at Drake University

Drake University's Journalism program offers a solid education with a median starting salary of $41,913. While this is slightly below the national average for early-career journalism graduates (around $45,000-$50,000), the program's strengths lie in its hands-on approach, internship opportunities in Des Moines, and the development of highly transferable skills. The cost of attendance at Drake should be considered, but the potential for career growth in fields like public relations, digital marketing, and communications management, where mid-career salaries can reach $60,000-$80,000+, suggests a positive long-term return on investment. Graduates often leverage their strong communication and critical thinking skills to pivot into diverse roles, making the degree a valuable asset for a dynamic career path.

A Journalism degree from Drake University opens doors to a wide array of career paths. Entry-level positions often include Reporter, Editorial Assistant, Content Writer, Social Media Coordinator, and Junior Publicist. As you gain experience, you can advance to roles such as Editor, News Producer, Communications Specialist, Digital Marketing Manager, Public Relations Manager, or Investigative Journalist. These roles are found in diverse industries including news media organizations (print, broadcast, online), advertising and marketing agencies, corporate communications departments, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and digital content platforms. The skills acquired are highly adaptable, allowing graduates to pursue careers in fields that require strong writing, research, and communication abilities.

Journalism graduates from Drake University report a median earning of $41,913 one year after graduation. Entry-level salaries typically range from $35,000 to $45,000, depending on the specific role and location. With 5-10 years of experience, mid-career professionals can expect to earn between $55,000 and $75,000, with many advancing into management or specialized roles. Senior-level positions, such as Communications Directors, Managing Editors, or lead strategists, can command salaries exceeding $80,000 to $100,000 annually. These figures are influenced by factors like industry, geographic location, and the graduate's specific skill set and career trajectory.

The Journalism program at Drake University cultivates a robust set of skills essential for success in modern communication. Core competencies include advanced writing and editing for various media formats, effective interviewing and research methodologies, and a deep understanding of media ethics and legal principles. Students also develop proficiency in digital media tools, social media management, and multimedia content creation (video, audio, graphics). Critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability under pressure, and strong interpersonal communication are also emphasized. These technical and soft skills are highly transferable, preparing graduates for diverse roles beyond traditional journalism.

Yes, there is a persistent demand for Journalism graduates, though the nature of the demand has evolved. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects moderate growth for reporters and correspondents, but strong growth for related fields like public relations specialists and advertising, marketing, promotions, and media sales occupations. The digital transformation of media has increased the need for professionals skilled in online content creation, social media strategy, data analysis, and multimedia storytelling. While traditional newsrooms face challenges, the core skills of research, critical analysis, ethical reporting, and clear communication are highly valued across industries, ensuring ongoing opportunities for well-prepared graduates.

Drake University's Journalism program, with a median first-year earning of $41,913, is positioned slightly below the national average for Journalism graduates, which typically falls between $45,000-$50,000. However, program comparisons extend beyond initial salaries. Drake's strength lies in its location in Des Moines, offering unique access to state government and local media for internships, and its emphasis on practical, hands-on experience through student media. Many programs nationwide offer similar core curricula, but Drake's specific integration of multimedia, its strong alumni network, and its focus on ethical practice provide a distinct advantage. Prospective students should consider the program's specific strengths, faculty expertise, and internship opportunities relative to their career goals.

Admission requirements for the Journalism program at Drake University are generally aligned with the university's overall undergraduate admission standards. Prospective students typically need to submit a completed application form, high school transcripts (demonstrating a strong academic record, often with a GPA of 3.0 or higher), standardized test scores (SAT or ACT, though Drake may have test-optional policies), and a personal essay or statement of purpose. Letters of recommendation may also be required or recommended. Specific prerequisites might include a certain number of English and social studies credits. It's advisable for students to check Drake University's official admissions website for the most current and detailed requirements, deadlines, and any program-specific application considerations, as these can change annually.